Pedestrian Struck And Killed By Maryland State Trooper

Ocean City – Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal Worcester County crash that occurred when a man crossed a highway on foot into the path of an oncoming trooper’s patrol car, according to Maryland State Police Spokeswoman Elena Russo.

Russo said the identification of the pedestrian is unknown at this time. He was transported by ambulance to Atlantic General Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. He did not have any identification with him at the time of the incident.

The trooper involved is identified as Master Trooper James Price. He was uninjured in the incident and is a 17-year veteran of the Maryland State Police, assigned to the Princess Anne Barrack. Price was on duty, assisting the Ocean City Police Department with road patrol during the Endless Summer Cruisin’ event. He was operating his agency issued, marked Ford Explorer at the time of the incident.

The preliminary investigation indicates that shortly before 11:30 p.m. last night, Master Trooper Price was on routine patrol assisting OCPD while traveling northbound on Coastal Highway at 76th Street in lane two, the middle lane of the three lane highway. For reasons unknown at this time, a pedestrian reportedly darted into the street into oncoming traffic, directly into the path of the approaching patrol car, said Russo.

Master Trooper Price attempted to take evasive action, but was unable to avoid striking the pedestrian. He immediately called for emergency medical services. EMS responded and transported the man by ambulance to Atlantic General Hospital.

The trooper did not report any injuries during the incident. He has been placed on administrative leave which is routine whenever a trooper is involved in a departmental incident.

The Maryland State Police CRASH Team is on scene conducting the investigation. Upon completion, the investigation will be presented to the State’s Attorney’s Office for review.

Officers from the Ocean City Police Department responded to assist along with Ocean City Fire Department and EMS personnel. Traffic is getting by in one lane of Coastal Highway at 76th Street.

Investigators are collecting evidence and seeking anyone who may have witnessed the incident. Witnesses are urged to call the Berlin Barrack at 410-641-3101. The investigation continues…

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